2012 Annual Report Chairman’s Report It has been a wonderful privilege to serve on the Board as Chairman again in 2012. I thank Rod Post for his leadership and commitment in the Board Chair’s role which he stepped down from at our Annual General Meeting this year. The Board Directors are Helen Bilton, Ian Carmichael, Julie Mathews, Frea Sietsma, Dean Stewart and myself with new members Simon Higgins and Ben Molyneux. I would like to thank them for all the hard work and dedication that they have given to their role. I would especially like to thank both Frea and Ian as they will be stepping down at the AGM. Both have served for many years in many ways and I know that the school has been blessed by them as they shared their passion for Christian education.
As I no longer have children attending the school, I really enjoy receiving the newsletter every week and going onto our school website to catch up on all that is happening within the life of the school. If you have not taken time to look at our website, let me encourage you to do so. It certainly brings the school community together as we share in what is going on in every part of the school, from Transition to Year 12 (and even to past students). Thank you to Neil Pierson and Sara de Horne who oversee and update the website regularly so that we all can feel part of this wonderful community.
It has been very exciting seeing the many changes that have been going on around the school this year, especially the starting of our new CLP building which will include Primary classrooms, a Junior Library and a Performance space. I would like to thank Andrew Lowry and his wonderful team of tradesmen who have also been transforming our older buildings through upgrades, fresh paint, new carpet etc which has made such a difference and will benefit both students and staff.
We have also been able to open our doors and welcome others to use our facilities as staff from other schools visit and as we host training days and events like the Colin Buchanan concert. It is wonderful to see how we can be a blessing to others and to look beyond our corner of the world. Our support of the Yarrabah community continued as we sent two teams of students and staff to Yarrabah this year. Many students want to have the opportunity to use their God given gifts to serve and give to others. Let us continue to support all these things as we work together to build the Kingdom of God.
I would also like to thank our Principal, Bill Rusin, and his hard working Executive staff, who I know have been facing many difficult situations throughout the year and have been stretched both physically and mentally. We must continue to uplift them in prayer, asking for God’s strength and guidance as they carry out their tasks daily with such a desire to serve God faithfully.
It is important to share with you that Covenant is not only growing and being blessed by God in our facilities and provision of so many excellent staff members, but that we have been able to bless and assist other Christian Schools both within our state and also across Australia. Many of our staff have helped other schools and their staff, and have been willing to share and give their time to come alongside them.
Lastly, I would like to thank each and every one of you in our school community, for all your work as volunteers and for your prayer and financial support. I hope and pray that you feel that you belong and that together we will see our school be the place that God planned it to be.
Anne Baker
2012 Staff Staff numbers have been increasing steadily each year. In 2012 there were 114 staff, of whom 89 were teaching staff and the remainder administrative or ancillary staff. There were 34 part-time and 55 full-time teaching staff. The retention rate for teaching staff was 95%. Of the teaching staff
Nine were provisionally accredited at the start of 2012. Four of these were accredited at the Professional Competence level during the year.
63 were existing teachers under the Institute of Teachers criteria
One had a Diploma of Education/Teaching
Seven had additional degrees or vocational certificates
All had a B.Ed. or a Bachelor’s Degree plus DipEd or equivalent 12 had an additional Master’s degree Teaching experience ranged from 0 to 37 years with an average of about ten years.
The following staff joined us in 2012: Mr Daniel Apin (Mathematics), Miss Miriam Binskin (Music), Mr Mark Childs (English/History), Mr Andrew Clucas (SDD), Miss Stephanie Coy (Teachers’ Aide), Mrs Samantha Glassock (returned from leave) (Extension & Enrichment), Miss Hayley Guyver (English/History), Mrs Justina Lowe (ICT Support), Mrs Melissa Lowe (TAS Teachers’ Aide), Mrs Kathy McLean (Transition Teachers’ Aide), Mrs Rachel Purcell (Mathematics), Mrs Rachel Pym (Teachers’ Aide), Mr Michael Street (English/History), Mrs Kim Sutherland (TAS Teachers’ Aide), Mr Logan Wakeford (PDHPE). The following staff were on leave during 2012: Mr Tim Groves (K-6), Mrs Silva Mekerdichian (Mathematics), Ms Kate O’Connor (English/History), Mrs Gabrielle Smith (English/History), Mrs Penina Stafford (Music).
The following staff left the school during 2012: Mrs Belinda Clarke (Teachers’ Aide), Mr Andrew Clucas (SDD), Miss Stephanie Coy (Teachers’ Aide), Mr David Chilton (English/History), Mrs Emma Clemens (K–6), Mr Anthony Gerke (ICT/Network Manager), Mrs Claire Purkis (Library Assistant), Mrs Amy Starreveld (K–6), Mrs Kim Sutherland (TAS Teachers’ Aide), Mr Brad Thornton (TAS Coordinator).
Staff Photo
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Principal’s Report Hindsight is a wonderful thing. We can look back and say with confidence that God keeps his promises to his people, both in the distant and recent past. Schools are communities of learners and much learning has gone on in our school in 2012.
A growing highlight is the Extension and Enrichment camps and activities that all of our students are able to be involved in. Maths Camps, Drama Camps, Writers Retreat and Art Camps continue to provide wonderful opportunities for students to engage with aspects of the curriculum in special and intensive ways.
Our results in external testing remain good, with many able students achieving very strong results in the HSC. We are equally thrilled with the results many of our students achieved because of their hard work and determination and whose talents are in different areas. The results from NAPLAN continue to show that the overwhelming majority of our children exceeded the national benchmarks, but we do have children who need extra help in these areas. This is only to be expected in a community like ours.
2012 also saw the introduction of multi-age camps in Years 8 to 10. The success of the new Yarrabah program and the Bike Camp has developed into a more organic and attractive program where parents and students have choice in camping programs.
Our staff continue to grow in faithfulness, confidence and competence to the task of teaching the children in their care about reality in the way it ought to be seen; not neglecting the reality of God, who He is, how He creates, sustains and enjoys His Creation. We have both lost and gained wonderful Christian staff in 2012, but have in general kept a stable staff. Increasing numbers of staff are taking on post graduate studies to Master’s degree level which is pleasing, and they have provided an academic grounding that is of significant benefit to our school. 2013 promises to have an increase in that number with both experienced staff and new staff seeking to grow their expertise in engaging the culture in a discerning way. Our school has been a place where celebration is a part of life. Events such as the Colin Buchanan concert, the very well attended Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day events, Trivia Night, Outer Limits Day, brilliant dance performances, Junior School musical, Create and Fusion Nights are just some of the events that have adorned the life of the school.
In 2012 we started the new Primary classrooms, Junior School Library and Performance Space building which will be completed in 2013. We have also continued to make improvements to our physical assets as an appropriate response to the call to be wise stewards of what we have. In pedagogical issues, the school is looking at Project based learning as a tool to increase not only individual student engagement, but also to allow a more collaborative and cooperative approach to learning, consistent with the school vision of what it means to practise Christian community. Our school continues to grow in being outward looking, not only in our local community, but also in the wider Christian community. Our school continues to be heavily involved in helping the wider CEN movement in staff development and running conferences. I commend this report to you as you seek to get a snapshot of our school.
William Rusin
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Christian Perspectives 2012 was a busy year in the area of Christian Perspectives at Covenant. Our staff had a number of opportunities to grow in our understanding of the rich heritage of Christian education, to learn from and to serve the wider community of Christian education National (CEN) schools. Here are a few highlights from the year:
Postgraduate Study with National Institute of Christian Education (NICE) A number of our teachers continued on with NICE studies in 2012. We had 11 teachers continuing on with study through the NICE – everyone from a first year teacher up to our Principal. It was encouraging to see our staff growing in their understanding of the nature and purpose of Christian education, and applying it in the classroom. Congratulations to Tracy Staples and Cath Rose who graduated from study at the end of the year.
Conferences Our NSW CEN conference at Wycliffe Christian School (Blue Mountains) was held in June. David Smith and Mark Roques challenged our staff to think deeply about the role we play in pointing our students to God. A number of our teaching staff led sessions looking at A Christian Perspective on Pre-School programs, Digital Discipleship, The Enrichment Site, Teaching Mathematics/History/TAS/Languages/Social Sciences from a Christian Perspective, International Studies as a service opportunity, Drama in Christian Schools, and Leadership and Mission. I am grateful to the school for the opportunity to share some of our work at Covenant with schools in other parts of Australia, through being given the opportunity to lead workshops at conferences in Perth (with Jay Trevaskis), Darwin and Canberra.
Working with other schools Last year provided a great opportunity to develop our relationships with other Christian schools. We worked on implementing a Christian approach to technology through the iPad grant with Orange Christian School, and provided assistance to teachers at Kuyper Christian School, Mountains Christian College, and Orange Christian School through the AIS mentoring program. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from them and partner with them on the journey. I would like to thank Covenant for the wonderful opportunities we have enjoyed in this area. My prayer is that we would continue to be good stewards of what we have been given.
Teachers as learners As a staff, we developed in our teaching through the 2+2 Teacher Observation Project, our Perspectives afternoon teas (where staff share what they have learned with one another), and through being able to learn from great thinkers in the area of Christian education. Mike Goheen and Mark Roques were able to spend some time at Covenant in 2012 speaking to teachers, parents and students, and share their wisdom with us. Our staff professional development afternoon training sessions have been a great encouragement, where teachers have worked together and been given the time to learn from one another. Our Professional Development taskforce of ten teachers looks closely at future directions in order to be faithful in the task we have been given. I am continually reminded that our role here is to take every opportunity to point our students to a deeper understanding of the God who made them, the Christ who saved them, and the Spirit that works within them to point one another to an amazing God as we seek to serve Him in this place.
Peter Muddle Curriculum Coordinator (T-12) Perspectives
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Co-curricular and Extra-Curricular Activities Secondary School The Secondary School is a bustling section of the school with learning not restricted to the classroom. Sporting, performing, creative and academic opportunities are available to interest and challenge the students. The Secondary Music Team continues to lead assemblies as well as Christmas and Easter celebrations while concert and stage bands and choirs are always growing. The Dance Academy has grown and was able to present a very successful end of year concert, while Visual Arts, Design and Technology and Industrial Technology students were able to showcase their major works at Fusion. In addition, there were Drama and Music evenings to showcase these specialist subjects. Swimming, cross country and athletic carnivals were well attended and produced strong individual performances by students to Combined Independent School level. Teams were entered in local and gala day events in sports such as football, rugby, netball and basketball. Public Speaking maintains its popularity. The Public Speaking Carnival is now an annual event in Term 3 with all speakers reaching a high standard. The interschool carnival between Covenant, Northern Beaches Christian School and Oxford Falls Grammar was again successful. Mr John Hill and other staff prepared students for the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme. Students completed testing walks in the National Park and the Blue Mountains as well the Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks. The trip to the Aboriginal Community of Yarrabah in North Queensland was again a great opportunity for our students to share the gospel while undertaking a cross cultural experience. We continue to forge strong links with this community. Some of the women from Yarrabah came to Sydney for a time with some of our teachers and parents. Leadership skills have been developed within the Student Council, which has raised money, run assemblies, assisted at various functions and represented the school at outside events. Bus Supervisors and House Captains also take on roles of responsibility and help in the smooth running of the school. Our Chaplain again organised the 40 Hour Famine for World Vision. About $6300 was raised. Student Council supported a number of other charities, represented the students on various issues and purchased additional equipment for the school. The school prepared shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, hampers for the Salvation Army and Home Classes continued their support of sponsor children. Camps are an integral feature of school life: Year 7-10 students experienced outdoor education camps and Year 11 attended a retreat to develop leadership and study skills in Term 4. There was also an Art Camp and a Maths Camp to extend students with a passion for these areas. Excursions, visits and talks were a regular feature of each term as our students continued to learn in a variety of ways.
Chris O’Sullivan Deputy Principal
Junior School Junior School engaged in a number of activities throughout the year with the School Musical having a significant focus. This year we produced a home grown production – Way Down in Egypt Land – that proved a success. Our bi-annual speech giving assemblies continue to improve the stature and quality of our collective speech giving skills. We continued with Outer Limits Day, a day devoted to extension and enrichment across Years 3-6. We also conducted a Mini Olympics to coincide with the London Olympics. Co-Curricular and Extra Curricular Activities throughout 2012 included:
Extra-Curricular
Training Band Junior Band Student Council Bible Club Chess Club Sport training
Co-Curricular
Year 5 / 6 Camps Year 3 / 4 Sleepover Maths Extension Camp, Comedy Camp, Writers Camp Maths Olympiad Musica Viva Infants Fun Day (games run by Year 10) Infants Swim Program Year 6 Community Day Art Exhibition House Captain training Speech-Giving Assemblies Billy Cart Race Day Kinma Friendship Day Library: Author visit StartSmart (financial literacy) ICAS Competitions Class Fundraising: Dr Fees, Book Swap Day, An Orphanage in China, Japanese Tsunami Victims, Bibles for Uganda, The Vinks in Tanzania, Camps for Kids Excursions for Year 3-6: Imax, Hyde Park Barracks, Canberra, Bushland, Powerhouse Museum, CARESBike Education day, Extension English, Surf Awareness Incursions for K-2: Living Eggs Program, Musica Viva, Jelly Wobbles, Healthy Eating Month and Community Officers, eg Ambulance, Fire Brigade SRC Mufti Days to support: Yarrabah Ai Niaan – young boy in China requiring an operation The Jagelman family in China John Colet School Library (following their fire)
Sport Carnivals: Athletics, Swimming, Cross Country Gala Days: Tennis, Eagle Tag, Soccer, Netball, Gymnastics, AFL Inter School Competition: Netball, Tee-ball, Soccer, League and Cricket.
Wayne Morton Head of Junior School
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Registrar’s Report Summary of Enrolment Policy Covenant Christian School is open to all children whose parents are seeking to give them an education which is consistent with the basis and aims of the school, provided the school has the resources to meet the child’s particular needs, and subject to the availability of places. Initial priority for enrolment will be determined by parents’ answers on the enrolment application and a letter of reference from the pastor of the church currently attended. This will be later confirmed through an interview with the parents. Normally children are accepted into Kindergarten only if they have turned five before 31st May that year. In exceptional circumstances, after careful testing, younger children may be admitted if they are considered to be socially, physically and intellectually mature enough. Children are accepted into the Transition classes only if they have turned three years of age and are toilet trained at the time they start.
Student Population In 2012 there were 798 students enrolled at the August Census from Kindergarten to Year 12. These students were predominantly from the Northern Beaches, Chatswood and Upper North Shore areas and represent a mix of cultural backgrounds. Two International Students were enrolled. The ratio of boys to girls was 53:47. The proportion of students from regular church attending families (representing over 120 churches) was 90%. There are two Transition classes for 3 and 4 year old children: a two day class on Monday and Tuesday and a three day class on Wednesday to Friday. In Junior School there were two classes per grade from Kindergarten to Year 6 except Year 1 and 2 which had 1½ classes in each grade. In Secondary School there were generally three classes per grade in Years 7 to 12.
Enrolments 2010 (August Census)
2011 (August Census)
K-6
326
313
303
7-12
456
470
548
TOTAL
782*
783*
798*
* Excluding 40 Transition students
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2012 (August Census)
Student Attendance and Management of Non-Attendance 98% of students attended school on average each school day in 2012. This included absences for sickness, medical appointments and approved leave. Non-attendance at school is managed by an electronic attendance roll. If a parent letter of explanation for nonattendance is not received, a form is sent home seeking an explanation. If a letter is not forthcoming after several attempts, senior staff are alerted to determine the appropriate follow-up, including consideration of potential student welfare issues. Where attendance patterns may affect the ability of a student to achieve educational outcomes for an external certificate, formal warning letters are provided to the student and parent.
Actual Retention Rates & Post School Destinations 87% of students who completed Year 12 at Covenant in 2012 had also completed Year 10 at the school. 92 students completed Year 10 at the school in 2010. 84 students completed Year 12 at the school in 2012. Four students commenced in Year 11 2011. We estimate that well over 75% of students eligible to attend university were offered a place in the first round offers. Many also received later offers. The remaining students also entered employment in a variety of fields or commenced training at TAFE or private colleges.
Wendy Boase
Key Policy Outline Welfare Our Mission statement declares that we assist “…parents in the nurture of their children, by providing a Christ-centred, biblically grounded, culturally engaging and academically rigorous education which equips children to live for God’s glory.” This means that, as a community of staff, students and parents and caregivers, we seek to treat each other in a Christ-like way. The well-being of the students is thus closely tied to our mission as a school. As a Christian school we aim to: make the school a safe place to work and play witness the Christian qualities of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control Specifically, Covenant Christian School is committed to: a safe and nurturing environment in which students can learn effective teaching and learning experiences which engage students in the activities of the school, including extracurricular activities a fair and effective discipline system which encourages good behaviour and seeks to improve the behaviour of students who do not behave well an environment in which students can come to understand how God has given them abilities and gifts and how they can use them an understanding that we are all made in God’s image but with many different strengths, and that we need to be accepting of and loving towards those who are different from ourselves an environment in which it is clear that bullying, violence and aggression are unacceptable a community in which parents, students and staff can communicate well with one another staff who are committed Christians, well qualified teachers and who seek to care for and nurture the students in their care Specific requirements are set out in our Child Protection and Anti-Harassment policies and procedures, among others. These include: ensuring that staff appointed are fit and proper people to occupy those positions through interviews and employment screening requiring staff to commit to a Staff Code of Conduct, which is actively monitored training staff in Child Protection and Anti-Harassment measures implementing procedures to identify when a child is at risk of harm and to notify the proper authorities implementing procedures to notify and investigate complaints of improper conduct by staff and report to appropriate authorities recognising that dealing with harassment is the shared responsibility of parents, staff and students establishing procedures which will ensure an effective response to incidents of harassment ensuring that all occurrences of harassment are dealt with fairly and consistently encouraging openness among pupils about all forms of harassment taking pro-active preventative measures against harassment
raising awareness about harassment among school staff, pupils and parents Bullying is when a person or group of people with more power at that time deliberately upset or hurt another person, their property, reputation or social acceptance on more than one occasion.
Discipline Covenant’s Discipline Policy is based on the following principles which are drawn from Scripture. It recognises the primacy of restoration of relationship over substantive issues and seeks to address relationship breakdown first if required. Discipline should: be founded on love and concern for the child and those around him/her contribute towards a student's growth in Christ; thus it may involve repentance, reconciliation and restitution include positive and negative elements - confirming, commending and encouraging, as well as correcting, reproving and punishing be clearly defined as to expectations and, wherever possible, be exercised promptly be consistent and administered fairly reflect on the action or attitude, not the person, so that it is clear we love the child take into account the maturity of the child seek to develop self-discipline and thus not depend too heavily or exclusively on external motivation, such as structured rewards and punishments
Grievance When dealing with any complaint, grievance or concern in relation to another person it ought to be done with the best intentions for the other person at heart. Whilst this is not necessarily easy to do, those involved in conflict ought to see it as an opportunity for growth. Specifically, all parties ought to: first speak directly about the issue to the person most concerned treat the matter seriously act fairly towards each other expect that they will be treated in the same way treat others involved in the situation with respect and graciousness act discreetly and maintain confidentiality If a person feels they cannot speak to the person concerned directly (eg in a case of bullying or fear), they should speak with another more senior person. In the case of a student, this may be the Home Class teacher or some other person they trust. If a resolution is not achieved then the matter should be taken to the next most senior person, and so on, until it reaches the Principal for a decision. Any parent who is unhappy about a decision of the Principal, or who for other reasons would like to take a matter further, may take it in writing to the Board. Full copies of these and other school polices can be obtained from the school office and are on the policy page of the school’s web site, www.ourcovenant.com.au
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Teaching and Learning Our Transition Class continued to provide a steady stream of confident students into Kindergarten, making a smooth start to the year for all involved. Students progressed from the T2 group to the T3 group and enjoyed a variety of shared experiences with the Infants classes during Term 4. Throughout the year, the Infants and Primary staff worked at re-sculpting the formatting of our programs. We sought to construct a universal template across the grades that had consistent branding. The main thrust however, was to minimise the repetitive administration so that more time could be spent on planning the teaching and learning process. Key to this process is a rationale that engages with God’s purpose in creation for that topic. Further embedded in the programs is a formula that we seek to implement: Drivers – What spiritual truth is driving this unit? Destinations – What Godly understanding or act of Christian service is the destination of this unit? Detours – What incidental detours have been discovered, unplanned perhaps, but worth revisiting next year? On top of this, we have included a section for biblical reflection, reminding staff to continually reform our thinking. Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 also received a NAPLAN report for their test results in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. The comparison between Covenant, NSW and national scores showed that Covenant was well above average in all areas. More details are available later in this report. The Secondary Section of the school has increased significantly. Years 7-12 are triple streamed while Year 10 2012 had four streams to cater for increased numbers and parent demand. This allows for four smaller classes in the key areas of English, Maths, Science, PDHPE, History, Geography and Biblical Studies. Although the core class idea has been phased out, one class in Years 7 and 8 is sorted for students with higher literacy skills while the other two classes are parallel. ICT skills are integrated into all subject areas. Students were offered a wide choice of electives in Year 9:
Drama, Music, Visual Arts Information and Software Technology German Timber Technology, Food Technology, Design and Technology Commerce Physical Activity and Sports Studies Students could choose between elective Geography and History in Year 9, with the mandatory Australian History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship studied in Year 10 Year 10 students completed the “All My Own Work” program on ethical work practices, plagiarism, copyright and group work, in readiness for study in Years 11 and 12. The Senior Section offers a broad and interesting curriculum. Year 11 and 12 students were able to choose from: General Mathematics, Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 1 and 2 English Standard, English Advanced, ESL, English Extension 1 and 2 and English Studies in Year 12 Visual Arts, Drama, Music 1 and 2, Dance Business Studies, Economics, Legal Studies Ancient and Modern History Biology, Physics, Chemistry PDHPE, Exploring Early Childhood, Sport Life and Recreation Studies
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German Beginners and Continuers, French Beginners Software Design and Development, Information Processes and Technology Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, Textiles and Design, Hospitality Studies of Religion 1 or Biblical Studies In 2012 Hospitality was a popular choice again as a VET subject. Once again, Hospitality students in Years 11 and 12 all completed their mandatory 70 hours work placement over the two years, with positive comments from the industry and employers. We continued our close links with NBBEN, our local community partnership. The school community enjoyed the skills of the Hospitality students at school functions such as the Fusion evening, when Visual Arts and Design students showcase their Major Works and when the students prepared and served a three course dinner to family and staff. Several students from Northern Beaches Christian School joined senior classes at Covenant in Hospitality and Dance. Some Covenant students took advantage of the Open High School language classes studying predominantly Japanese and Spanish. Students also studied a range of languages at Saturday School. In 2012 students in Year 10 and 11 had school issued laptops. Each student was obliged to complete an online Digital Discipleship course developed by our Director of ICT. This is aimed at inculcating a responsible and godly approach to technology in the students. At the end of the year the program was rolled out to Year 9 students so that by the start of 2013 all students in the Senior Section will have a school issued laptop. Teachers are finding creative and exciting ways of using technology in their classes. The Vertical Roll Groups started in 2009 continued and gained strength and focus. In 2012 there were 28 Home Classes with seven classes in each House group. Each class consists of students from Years 7-12 and the students and staff stay with their group. Older students are encouraged to mentor younger ones and to take an interest in their wellbeing. In all subject areas throughout the school, excursions, guest speakers and field trips were organised. Geography students in Years 9 to 11 were given the opportunity to travel to New Zealand to further their studies. We received grants for the following specific areas of the school in 2012: Special Needs and ESL, Mentoring, Languages and the ongoing Chaplaincy Grant. The Professional Development budget of over $40,000 was utilised with staff attending over 80 separate courses. This does not include money set aside by the Board for staff to study at the National Institute of Christian Education. Average expenditure per staff member was approximately $400. Staff undertook courses including: Teachers New to Christian Schooling, Leadership, Pedagogy, Computer Literacy, Phonics, ESL Teaching, Mental Health Awareness, Music, Technology and many other subject based courses. Several staff continued their postgraduate studies and there were in-house sessions for health related matters, First Aid (including defibrillator training) and WH&S. Several New Scheme teachers were accredited as competent for the NSW Institute of Teachers while others are preparing their submissions. Professional development is being monitored and logged on the NSW Teachers Institute website.
School Performance Higher School Certificate Results Covenant Christian School received outstanding results in the 2012 Higher School Certificate. There were some excellent individual performances as well as a number of outstanding results in a variety of subject areas. While we celebrate with students who have achieved in the top performance bands, and received outstanding ATAR results, we believe the best results were achieved by those who had given their best and worked in a committed and consistent manner. Some students far exceeded their expectations. Well over 75% of students eligible to attend university were offered a place in the first round offers. Students will be studying a range of subjects including Commerce, Nursing, Teaching, Fine Arts, Engineering, Engineering Mechanical, Computer Software, Design, Event Management, Science, Arts, English, Business, International and Global Studies, Construction and Project Management, Communication, Psychology, Social Work, Environmental Science, Automotive, Exercise and Sports Science, Television, Civil Engineering, Hospitality and Fashion. Twelve of our students gained an ATAR above 90. There were 54 scores over 90 (Band 6) for individual subjects, gained by 25 students. Subjects in which students achieved a Band 6 were Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2, General Mathematics, English Advanced, English Extension 1, English Extension 2, Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, Textiles and Design, Music 1, PDHPE, Studies of Religion, Visual Arts, Economics, Physics, Ancient History, Modern History, Business Studies, French Beginners, Geography, Chemistry and Information Processes and Technology. Covenant was ranked in the top 200 in the State based on the 2012 HSC results. Covenant is a comprehensive co-educational school. We do not offer academic scholarships as we believe those in need of financial support are those who struggle to afford a Christian education, not only those with high academic ability. Our excellent results reflect the high standards and hard work of our staff and students and the prayerful support of our community.
Course Name
School Mean
State Mean
Variation
Ancient History
78.29
69.35
8.94
Business Studies
79.64
73.98
5.76
Industrial Technology
80.96
71.81
9.15
Mathematics
83.31
77.64
5.67
76.14
69.41
6.73
81.73
75.50
6.23
General Mathematics Hospitality Examination
General Comments In 55% of subjects taken at Covenant, students performed at a level equivalent to or better than State average.
Covenant students sat 36 different HSC courses in 2012. In most of those courses, students performed at a level well above State average. A good number of subjects exceeded the State average by more than 5%. There were 31 students who received marks in the 90’s, placing them in Band 6, the top performance band for the State. There were an impressive 52 marks between 90 and 100. There were also a very large number of outstanding individual performances where students gained an HSC mark of 80 – 89, placing them in Band 5, the second highest performance band for the State. Overall there were 185 marks between 80 and 89. Covenant students were significantly under-represented in Bands 3, 2 and 1, the lower performance bands. In some subjects there were no students in the lowest 3 performance bands. Four subjects are shown here as an example. Mathematics 17.24% of CCS students received a Band 6, the top performance Band when compared to State average 44.82% of CCS students were significantly over represented in Band 5, the second top performance Band, when compared to the State average 100% of CCS students achieved HSC marks placing them in Bands 6, 5 and 4 There were no CCS students represented in the lowest 3 performance bands Studies of Religion 35.29% of CCS students were significantly over represented in Band 6, the top performance band when compared to State average of 11.47% 29.41% of CCS students were represented in Band 5 the second top performance band 35.29% of CCS students were significantly over represented in Band 4 100% of CCS students achieved HSC marks placing them in Bands 6, 5 and 4 Visual Arts 22.22% of CCS students were significantly over represented in Band 6, the top performance band, when compared to State average of 11.14% 44.44% of CCS students were represented in Band 5, the second top performance band 100% of CCS students achieved HSC marks placing them in Bands 6, 5 and 4 There were no CCS students represented in the lowest three performance bands Hospitality Examination 66.66% of CCS students were significantly over represented in Band 5, the top performance band, when compared to State average of 23.01% 33.33% of CCS students were represented in Band 4 100% of CCS students achieved HSC marks placing them in Bands 5 and 4 There were no CCS students represented in the lowest three performance bands
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School Certificate Results The School Certificate examinations were abolished in 2011 so 2012 was the first year without School Certificate exams. Students received school based grades based on internal assessments.
National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy In the 2012 NAPLAN (National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy) tests, our students generally exceeded the benchmarks in all areas. In most cases results are above or well above the national averages. Those students who have fallen below the benchmarks have been identified by the Education Support staff and extra teaching time and support has been provided. Strategies have been put in place to assist them by a combination of withdrawal groups, working alongside students in their classrooms, individual tutor groups and other individualised programs where necessary. Even students with identified difficulties who may have been eligible for exemptions may have taken the tests. Very few students were exempted. The following table summarises results and compares them to State scores.
NAPLAN RESULTS
Reading
Writing
Spelling
Grammar and Punctuation
Numeracy
Data Measurement Space & Geometry
Number Patterns & Algebra
CCS Year 3
471.6
436.5
450.1
463.7
436.0
420.1
449.5
NSW Year 3
426.8
425.0
428.1
434.5
405.7
402.3
407.6
CCS Year 5
550.7
498.6
533.4
560.0
554.2
547.4
560.1
NSW Year 5
500.1
486.2
507.6
503.7
498.8
497.3
500.0
CCS Year 7
546.7
521.1
555.4
577.3
552.7
545.6
545.5
NSW Year 7
585.9
556.0
586.7
538.4
596.7
600.3
598.1
CCS Year 9
579.5
557.5
586.5
578.8
594.8
592.4
596.8
NSW Year 9
605.1
582.8
606.1
611.7
627.4
635.6
632.4
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Financial Report Overview I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ending 2012 on behalf of the school Board. Good progress in a number of key areas was made in 2012. None were more significant than the commencement of the CLP (Classroom, Library, Performance) building in July last year. The downturn in the construction industry meant that the cost to build was on the lower side of estimates. This is naturally a real blessing to the school community. In addition, we had a solid increase in student enrolments in the Secondary School. As a result we achieved a pleasing operating surplus that assisted our cash flow position being ahead of budget expectations. Our financial performance is a direct result of the school exceeding student enrolment expectations, of generous Australian Government recurrent and capital funding, of parents paying their fees on time, as well as the school’s ability to manage payments and bank accounts to maximise interest income. The school met its obligations to staff and creditors in 2012. Under the guidance of the Board, the Finance Committee consisting of Board, Association Members and Executive, are involved in the financial management of the school. The Committee is invaluable, as a number of financial improvements have come about as a result. The Committee is actively involved in the budget process.
Fees & Enrolments The Board’s goal is to provide affordable Christian education to Christian parents, by keeping the fees as low as possible while yet still delivering a high standard of Christian education, and maintaining and improving buildings and grounds to satisfactory levels. Last year our student numbers were budgeted at 784 and at census we achieved 798. Our 2013 enrolment target is 796.
Accounts 2012 The Financial Accounts for year ending 2012 show a net operating surplus of $691k. The cash position at the end of the year decreased from $4.12m to a total of $3.13m due to the commencement of the CLP Building. The Board recognises the need to create an appropriate surplus each year with a view to future building projects. A budgeted net operating surplus of $400k was approved for 2013. It is the school’s accounting practice that the Business Manager can write off consulting & administration fees related to capital projects & some building improvement costs in the year the work was carried out. This practice is with the full knowledge of the Board and the schools auditor, IL Struthers & Associates. It is only decided when the schools recurrent cash surplus permits and is above the budget surplus. A number of great new additions and refurbishments have taken place to improve school facilities in 2012. This included an additional small classroom in J Block with wet weather shelter provided for J Block stairs and the area outside the locker rooms, G Block deck with access to the first floor of G Block from the oval, expansion of the Science Lab in F Block, expanded classroom size of F1 Science space, a fully weather proof membrane installed over the Coliseum space near D & E Blocks and refurbished classrooms in G Block. In the ICT sector, the whole school wireless infrastructure was fully upgraded to improve performance given the increasing number of devices in operation. An investment in the disaster recovery infrastructure was implemented and the iPad trial was commenced in Year 5 and subsequently rolled out to Year 6 as well by the end of 2012. The school bandwidth was also doubled due to technology use and reliance.
During 2012 we reduced our loans by $337k. This is a great achievement which speaks volumes to bankers and others about our solid financial credentials. We also had our building and contents valued to ensure that we are adequately insured.
Income Income from families equates to 46% of total income and government grants equate to approximately 51% of total income. In more simplistic terms, for every $1.00 a parent paid, grants from the Federal and State Governments contributed $1.12. We are thankful for government support.
2%
Income
1%
Resident Student Fees Transition Student Fees Federal Government Grants
0%
2%
14%
State Government Grants Interest Subsidy
44%
Interest Received
35%
Special Grants
2%
Other
Recurrent Expenditure Our expenses in 2012 will show that our major recurrent expense is salaries. In 2012 salaries represented 67% of our total recurrent expenditure. This does not include capital expenditure. Teacher Salaries
1% 11%
5%
Admin & IT Salaries
3% 1%
Interest on Borrowed Funds Educational Expenses Sport & Excurisons
58% 5% 3% 9% 3% 1%
Administration Expenses Building/Grounds Maint Depreciation Equipment Leasing
Expenditure
Building Consultation Fees Insurances
The Year Ahead We believe the 2013 budget has been established with an achievable net operating surplus target. The cash flow is going to decline in line with capital investment, however, we still anticipate more than $1m in the bank by year end. This is seen as prudent. The key to achieving our budget largely depends on meeting our budgeted enrolment numbers of 796. In 2013 we will continue to position the school with the financial stability required to proceed with higher student enrolments in subsequent years. This includes the facilities to meet the capacity and the staffing needs to meet the enrolments. The new CLP Building is due to open in Term 3 2013 and will provide great benefits to the whole school community. We hope that all community members will find an opportunity to return to school and take a tour. In addition there are other projects that will be undertaken to add value in other ways. The school continues to be committed to preventative maintenance for the long term benefit of the school. We ask for your continued financial and prayer partnership over the coming year.
Andrew Lowry Business Manager
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Telephone: 02 9450 2688 Fax: 02 9450 2829 Email: admin@covenant.nsw.edu.au Web: www.covenant.nsw.edu.au 212 Forest Way Belrose PO Box 6154 Frenchs Forest DC NSW 2086 Australia CRICOS Provider No: 00390C CRICOS Registered Provider: Covenant Christian School Association Ltd Operated by Covenant Christian School Association Ltd ACN 001 706 047 ABN 16 293 921 492
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